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Can you gather your vital breath and yet be tender like a newborn baby?
Laozi
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Embracing strength and gentleness can coexist in a balanced life.

This quote by Laozi emphasizes the importance of integrating both strength and tenderness within ourselves. It suggests that true wisdom lies in the ability to harness one's vital energy, while simultaneously embodying the softness and purity of a newborn, indicating that strength does not have to be aggressive and gentleness does not compromise power.

Themes

StrengthTendernessWisdomBalanceSelfControl

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech about personal development, one might say, 'As Laozi reminds us, we can gather our vital breath and still remain tender like a newborn, illustrating the balance we must cultivate.'

More from Laozi

If you understand others you are smart._x000D_ If you understand yourself you are illuminated._x000D_ If you overcome others you are powerful._x000D_ If you overcome yourself you have strength._x000D_ If you know how to be satisfied you are rich._x000D_ If you can act with vigor, you have a will._x000D_ If you don't lose your objectives you can be long-lasting._x000D_ If you die without loss, you are eternal.
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Rule your mind with serenity rather than with force and manipulation.
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Quote by Laozi | QuoteProject